Curaçao is the Caribbean’s hidden gem — the island that surprises Sailors who arrive without expectations and leaves them planning a return trip. Willemstad, the capital, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site: a city of extraordinary Dutch colonial architecture painted in vibrant pastels that lines both sides of a natural harbor, connected by a floating pedestrian bridge. It is one of the most visually distinctive port cities anywhere in the Caribbean, and it rewards unhurried exploration.
Combine the architecture with excellent diving, pristine beaches on the south coast, and a distinctly European-meets-Caribbean cultural atmosphere, and Curaçao makes a compelling case for being the port day Sailors most underestimate before they arrive. Check out Fort-de-France, Martinique: A First-Timer’s Port Day Guide on Virgin Voyages.
Willemstad: The City
The two historic neighborhoods of Punda and Otrobanda face each other across St. Anna Bay, connected by the Queen Emma pontoon bridge — a floating walking bridge that swings open to let ships pass and provides the iconic view of Willemstad’s painted waterfront. Walking between Punda and Otrobanda, exploring the colorful streets, ducking into the covered market, and watching the harbor is genuinely one of the best port day city walking experiences in the Caribbean.
The Curaçao Museum and the Landhuis plantation houses provide deeper historical context for Sailors who want more than architecture.
Best Shore Things
Beach day at Cas Abao or Playa Kenepa: The west coast beaches of Curaçao are among the finest in the southern Caribbean. Cas Abao is a 20-minute taxi ride from Willemstad and offers crystal-clear water, coral reefs for snorkeling, and a well-maintained beach facility with a restaurant.
Diving and snorkeling: Curaçao’s marine environment is exceptional. The island sits outside the hurricane belt, meaning the reefs are well-developed and the visibility is consistently outstanding. Multiple wreck dives are available including the Superior Producer wreck.
Blue Curaçao distillery tour: The famous liqueur’s original distillery operates at the Landhuis Chobolobo estate, where tours explain the production from laraha orange peel and include tastings of multiple varieties.
Ostrich Farm: An unexpected Shore Thing that is genuinely popular — Africa’s largest birds in a Curaçaoan landscape, with feeding and riding experiences available.
Insider Tips from Joel and Erin
- Walk the Queen Emma Bridge. Do not just photograph it. Walk across it, stop in the middle, and look at the painted waterfront from the water’s perspective. It’s one of the great Caribbean views.
- Cas Abao over Mambo Beach. Mambo Beach is closer and more developed but significantly more crowded. The taxi to Cas Abao is worth it for the water clarity and beach quality.
- The Blue Curaçao tour is excellent even if you don’t drink liqueur. The Landhuis Chobolobo estate itself, the laraha orange grove, and the production story are worth the visit independently of the tasting.
Ready to Sail?
Joel and Erin are certified First Mates. Let them help you find the right Virgin Voyages sailing that includes Curaçao.
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